EU HCFC Phase Out

Under the Montreal protocol, it was agreed that ozone depleting substances including CFCs and HCFCs would be phased out globally.

The EU regulation 2037/2000 states that existing refrigeration and air conditioning systems could be fitted with virgin (new) HCFC only up to 31st December 2009.

Common HCFCs include; R22, R123, R401A/B, R402A/B, R408A and R409A.

From now on, until 31 December 2014 only reclaimed or recycled refrigerants can be used.

From 2015 there is a total ban on filling HCFCs in the EU.

What does that mean for you?

From 1st January 2010, virgin HCFCs were banned from use. Only reclaimed or recycled R22 can be used for service and repair purposes. All R22 plants must be converted in the long term.

Act instead of react - Scarcity of reclaimed HCFCs

The only reclaimed HCFC available in commercial quantities is R22. However there are no reliable figures on the amount of reclaimed R22 that will be available from 2010, as this will depend on the number of conversions carried out and the purity of the products returned.

The best decision will depend on a number of factors, including the age, working life, condition, operating costs, refrigerant used and application. We are happy to provide impartial advice on which option makes sense for your site.